Effects of fully immersive virtual reality-based training on cognitive and motor functions in adults with intellectual disabilities

This study evaluated a 12-session fully immersive virtual reality (VR) training program for people with intellectual disabilities, assessing its effects on (i) non-practiced VR game performance, (ii) cognitive and neuromotor response times, and (iii) skill transfer to real-world tasks. A pre-post longitudinal design was used, with 17 participants in the VR group (VRG) and 21 in the control group (CG). The VRG completed two weekly 60-min training sessions over nine weeks, while the CG continued usual activities. VRG significantly improved VR game performance (ES = 0.46-1.38, p ≤ 0.040), while CG showed no changes. Response times did not improve in either group. Dual-task walking and balance improved in both groups, but motor skill performance declined in CG (p = 0.003). Fully immersive VR enhances cognitive-motor skills, but their transfer to specific real-world tasks remains limited, highlighting the need for integration with practical training.